Read More

In a statement released on Monday, MFC said: "Middlesbrough Football Club would like to alert young players and parents of aspiring young footballers of a scam inviting players to join the club on trial in return for a payment made by the young player.

"Young footballers have been targeted in this manner in Europe and beyond.

"We understand we are one of a number of clubs whose name is being used in this manner, and have reported this to both the police and the FA, who we are currently assisting in their investigations.

"MFC would like to reiterate that any invitations for players to join on trial would always be made directly from the club and not from any third parties.

It is understood the amounts of money being asked for in the scam are varied and young players across Europe, in the Caribbean and Africa have been targeted.